How to Dispose of Old Gasoline?

Disposing of old gasoline is a task that requires careful handling and adherence to environmental regulations. Gasoline, a highly flammable and toxic substance, can pose serious risks to health and safety if not managed properly.

Moreover, improper disposal can have detrimental effects on the environment, contaminating soil and water sources.

Published: March 26, 2024.

Recognizing Old Gasoline

Before disposal, it's crucial to determine whether the gasoline is indeed old or contaminated. Gasoline that has been stored for an extended period, typically over six months, may have degraded in quality.

Signs of old gasoline include a darker color than fresh gasoline and a sour or stale smell. If gasoline has been mixed with water or other substances, it's also considered contaminated and should be disposed of.

Safety Precautions

When handling old gasoline, always prioritize safety:

• Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves and safety glasses to protect your skin and eyes from irritation.
• Ensure Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
• No Open Flames: Keep away from open flames, sparks, or anything that could ignite the gasoline.

Steps for Disposal

• Check Local Regulations: The first step is to check with your local waste management authorities for specific guidelines on disposing of hazardous waste like gasoline. Many areas have designated drop-off sites or special collection events for hazardous materials.
• Use a Certified Container: If you're transporting old gasoline to a disposal facility, use a government-approved container designed for gasoline storage. This ensures the gasoline is contained securely during transportation.
• Find a Disposal Facility: Many communities have hazardous waste collection centers that accept old gasoline. Some automotive shops or recycling centers may also offer this service. It's essential to call ahead and confirm that the facility can take your old gasoline.
• Consider Recycling: Some facilities are equipped to recycle old gasoline, filtering out impurities and reusing the fuel when possible. Inquiring about recycling options is a responsible way to handle disposal, as it minimizes environmental impact.
• Never Pour Down Drains or on the Ground: Pouring gasoline on the ground or down drains can lead to soil and water contamination and is illegal in many jurisdictions. Always use proper disposal methods to protect the environment.

Alternative Uses

In some cases, old gasoline that's not heavily contaminated can be rejuvenated for use. Mixing old gasoline with fresh fuel in a safe ratio (e.g., one part old to five parts new) can make it usable for engines that are not sensitive, such as lawnmowers or leaf blowers.

Portable inverter generators generally have OHV 4-stroke engines that don't like gasoline with ethanol too much, and although some of them can "chew" even bad gasoline, such practice can shorten their operating life, increase oil consumption, render the warranty void, etc.

However, this should be done with caution and only if the old gasoline is not too degraded.

Storing Gasoline to Prolong Its Lifetime

Proper storage of gasoline is crucial to maintain its quality and effectiveness.

• Use Appropriate Containers: Store gasoline in containers specifically designed for fuel storage. These containers are usually made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or metal and are equipped with flame arrestors and pressure-release valves.
• Keep It Cool and Dry: Store the gasoline container in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Heat can increase pressure inside the container and accelerate the fuel's degradation.
• Limit Exposure to Air: Fill the storage container to 95% capacity to reduce the amount of air inside. Oxygen can oxidize the fuel, leading to deterioration. However, leave some space for expansion.
• Use Fuel Stabilizers: If you plan to store gasoline for an extended period (beyond three months), add a fuel stabilizer. This additive can significantly extend the fuel's shelf life by slowing chemical breakdown and preventing varnish and gum buildup in the engine.
• Rotate Stock: Use and replace stored gasoline within one year, even with the use of stabilizers. Mark the purchase date on the containers and use the oldest gasoline first.
• Safety First: Always store gasoline outside of living areas and away from homes in a detached shed or garage. Keep it away from any sources of ignition, such as heaters, appliances, and electrical equipment.

If there is a need for longer fuel storage, consider other energy sources - for example, propane for dual-fuel power generators and similar.

Can I Use Gasoline With Water In It?

Using gasoline that has been contaminated with water can lead to significant issues for internal combustion engines, and it is generally not advisable to use it. Water in gasoline can cause several problems:

• Engine Performance Issues: Water does not combust and can disrupt the proper air-fuel mixture required for efficient engine operation. This disruption can lead to rough idling and sputtering or even prevent the engine from starting.
• Corrosion: Water can lead to corrosion of the engine's fuel system components, including the fuel injectors and fuel pump. Over time, this can cause damage to these parts, necessitating expensive repairs.
• Phase Separation in Ethanol-Blended Fuels: Many gasoline blends contain ethanol, which can absorb a small amount of water, blending it into the fuel. However, if the water content exceeds what the ethanol can absorb (roughly 0.5% by volume), phase separation occurs. This separation results in layers of water and ethanol at the bottom of the tank, which can be drawn into the engine, leading to significant damage.

What to Do If Your Gasoline Is Contaminated With Water

If you suspect that your gasoline is contaminated with water, the safest course of action is to avoid using it in your vehicle or equipment.

• Remove Contaminated Fuel: If possible, drain the contaminated fuel from your vehicle's or equipment's fuel tank safely. Store it in a proper container until you can dispose of it according to local hazardous waste regulations.
• Seek Professional Advice: For vehicles, consider consulting with a professional mechanic to determine the best course of action. They might recommend flushing the fuel system to remove any residual contaminated fuel.
• Disposal: Contact your local waste management or hazardous waste disposal facility to find out how to dispose of the contaminated gasoline safely.

It is best to avoid using water-contaminated gasoline to protect your engine from potential damage. Taking steps to prevent water contamination in your fuel can save you from costly repairs and extend the life of your engine.

Proper disposal of old gasoline is essential for environmental protection and personal safety. Always prioritize safety and environmental considerations when dealing with hazardous materials like old gasoline.